Description
This baked mahi-mahi recipe features tender fillets cooked atop lemon slices, infusing the fish with bright citrus flavor. Topped with a rich garlic-herb butter, it creates a deliciously moist and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner, this recipe can also be adapted for other firm fish like salmon, cod, or halibut.
Ingredients
Fish and Lemon
- 1 medium lemon
- 4 (5 ounce) skinless mahi-mahi fillets
- ½ teaspoon salt
Garlic-Herb Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
- 1 medium clove garlic, grated
- ½ teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Lemon Slices: Grate the lemon to get 1 teaspoon of zest and set it aside in a small microwave-safe bowl. Cut four 1/4-inch-thick lemon slices from the grated lemon and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Arrange the Fish: Place one mahi-mahi fillet on top of each lemon slice on the baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle all fillets with ½ teaspoon salt.
- Make the Garlic-Herb Butter: To the bowl with lemon zest, add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, grated garlic, ½ teaspoon coarsely ground pepper, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Microwave on high for about 30 seconds or until the butter melts and the spices become fragrant. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Coat the Fillets: Spoon and brush the melted garlic-herb butter mixture evenly over each mahi-mahi fillet, ensuring good coverage to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Bake the Fish: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork, approximately 20 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use other firm fish such as salmon, cod, or halibut if mahi-mahi is unavailable.
- Freshness is key: choose fillets with a fresh ocean smell and firm, moist flesh.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently in an air fryer, oven, or skillet to prevent drying out.
- Serve with crisp salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or sides like baked potatoes and rice.
- Avoid reheating fish in the microwave to maintain moisture and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
